INTRODUCING THE MORGANS (VI), JOSE MORGAN

Hi, I'm Jose Morgan. I was born in Kyoto, Japan and I am an acrobat. 

A few months ago, I discovered that the famous Welsh pirate Henry Morgan was an ancestor of mine and that I had brothers and sisters to meet. Thanks to The Grandma, an Andorran grandmother, who made every effort to locate us, today I know them all and to celebrate this meeting we decided to spend two months together travelling and reviewing our level of English because we have all decided to retire to Kingston, Jamaica, to enjoy the Morgan fortune, and English is its official language.

-What's your full name?

-My name is Jose Morgan Tanaka.

-How do you spell your second surname?

-T-A-N-A-K-A

-Are you a student? What are you studying?

-No, I'm not a student. I completed my professional training in acrobatics and performing arts several years ago.

-Are you working? What is your job?

-Yes, I am. I'm a circus acrobat. I perform in circus shows and live events, where I do acrobatic routines, aerial performances, and balancing acts.

-Do you like your job? Why?

-Yes, I love my job because it combines athletic skills, creativity, and entertainment. Every performance is exciting, and I enjoy making people smile.

-Where are you from?

-I'm from Kyoto, Japan.

-How long have you lived there?

-I lived in Kyoto for most of my life before travelling internationally with different circus companies. I still visit my hometown whenever I have the opportunity.

-Why are you studying English?

-I'm studying English because I often work with performers from different countries. English helps me communicate with my colleagues and audiences around the world.

-How long have you been studying English?

-I've been studying English for two months with The Morgans. I didn't study it at school.

-Tell me about your city.

-Kyoto is one of the most famous cities in Japan. It is known for its temples, traditional gardens, and cultural heritage. Many visitors come to experience its history and beautiful scenery.

-What music do you like?

-I enjoy many kinds of music, including classical music, Japanese traditional music, and modern pop. Music is very important when preparing for performances.

-Can you play any instrument?

-Yes, I can play the shamisen a little. It is a traditional Japanese string instrument. I enjoy practising it in my free time.

-Tell me about your favourite place.

-My favourite place is Fushimi Inari Taisha. I love walking through the thousands of red torii gates and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

-What do you like doing in your free time?

-In my free time, I enjoy training, visiting historical sites, reading, and taking photographs. I also like spending time with friends and family when I'm not travelling.

-Do you practise any sport? Which?

-Yes, I do. Acrobatics requires a lot of physical training. I also practise gymnastics, stretching, and running to stay fit and improve my performance.

-How did you become interested in acrobatics?

-I became interested in acrobatics when I was a child. I watched circus performances on television and was amazed by the athletes' skills and discipline.

-What is the most difficult part of your job?

-The most difficult part is maintaining excellent physical condition. Acrobatics requires strength, flexibility, balance, and constant practice.

-Have you ever performed in another country?

-Yes, I have. I've performed in several countries across Europe and Asia. Travelling for work has allowed me to experience different cultures and meet many interesting people.

-What do you enjoy most about performing?

-I enjoy the connection with the audience. It's rewarding to see people surprised, excited, and happy during a performance.

-Would you like to teach acrobatics in the future?

-Yes, I would. I would like to share my experience with younger performers and help them develop their skills safely and confidently.

-What qualities should a good acrobat have?

-A good acrobat should be disciplined, patient, physically fit, and willing to work hard. Confidence and teamwork are also very important in circus performances.

-How is a normal day with The Morgans?

-We haven't got similar days. Every day is different and this is something very important because it offers to you the possibility of living fantastic experiences every day and you can enjoy them with all your heart because you know that next day you're going to put the score to zero and we're going to start again. It's a non-stopping life.

-Which is your best memory with The Morgans?

-It's difficult to choose only one. I remember when we travelled back in time to the Kingdom of Camelot. It was a fantastic experience to meet King Arthur and the members of his court.

-Which is your favourite song?

-I love 'The Sheltering Sky' by Ryūichi Sakamoto. The piano is an instrument that gives me calm, concentration and introspection, which is what I need most in my work, but also in my life, but I want to choose 'Life in Mars?' by David Bowie sung by Jessica Lange in American Horror Story: Freak Show.

 But the film is a saddening bore
For she's lived it ten times or more
She could spit in the eyes of fools
As they ask her to focus on.

David Bowie